Johnny Herbert has shared his thoughts on the future successor to Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari, naming the ideal heir. Here are Herbert’s words on Bearman, a perfect profile for the Scuderia
The 2024 season has been full of emotions and changes. Numerous episodes have been covered, both on and off the track: from the many departures at Red Bull, with Adrian Newey being the most notable, to the revolutions at Aston Martin and Alpine, and the debut of many rising stars of F1’s future. One of the most talked-about prospects this season has undoubtedly been Oliver Bearman. The 19-year-old from 2005, still very young and also competing in the F2 World Championship, has already likely achieved two of the biggest dreams for any aspiring driver: to race in Formula 1 and to drive for Ferrari.
In the photo: Ollie and Hulkenberg in Brazil, driving for Haas.
After stepping in for Carlos Sainz in Saudi Arabia due to an appendicitis, Bearman, who went on to win the Australian Grand Prix the following weekend, performed admirably on the challenging streets of Jeddah, taking Ferrari to a seventh-place finish after starting from eleventh. From there, it was only progress, with Bearman showing the hunger typical of a rookie eager to secure a full-time F1 seat. This is why Haas, aware of Hulkenberg’s departure to Sauber-Audi at the end of the season, and strongly supported by Ferrari, decided to offer the vacant seat to the young Bearman, who will team up with Esteban Ocon in 2025. The duo is expected to be a dynamic and talented pairing that will surely bring benefits to the American team.
Additionally, Bearman’s adventure with Ferrari in 2024 may not yet be over: the young Brit is in contention with Antonio Fuoco to drive the Scuderia car during the FP1 sessions in Abu Dhabi, the final race of the season. Johnny Herbert, the former driver for Benetton, Sauber, Tyrrell, and Lotus, and a prominent figure in the F1 paddock, has also spoken about Bearman’s growth this season and his future potential. Herbert has been a FIA steward at several races this season, including most recently at the Mexican Grand Prix a few weeks ago.
Herbert’s words on Bearman
In an interview with Sky Sports UK, Johnny Herbert shared his thoughts on Oliver Bearman’s season and his performance in the F1 circus so far: “In Brazil, for instance, he immediately took the lead in the Friday practice sessions, showing remarkable speed and control. He has a strong adaptability and an excellent rhythm on track. These are key attributes for succeeding at Haas next year and aiming to compete with someone like Esteban Ocon.” .”
What are Bearman’s chances of doing well with Ferrari in the future? Herbert has no doubts: “Given his already established connection with Maranello, it’s truly exciting to think that he could one day take Lewis’ seat. It’s a choice that Vasseur will consider carefully, aware of the potential he could unleash when the time comes.” In other words, we’ll have much to talk about in 2027 and 2028, keeping Herbert’s words in mind—someone who truly knows the track and the drivers inside out.
Photo: MoneyGram Haas F1 Team